Today we’re talking about lesson planning. Specifically, how to save time lesson planning. I bet that gets your attention. Look, I know lesson planning is an essential part of teaching, but sometimes it feels like it takes forever. Just the thought of lesson planning can inspire dread and stress. But what if I told you there are strategies to ... Continue Reading
3 Must-Have Resources for Teaching Writing
As we head into a brand new school year, I know many of you are thinking about what you can do to set yourself and your students up for success. And when it comes to teaching writing, that can feel a little daunting. Yep, I've been there! But what if I told you that there are three must-have resources that could turn teaching writing from ... Continue Reading
Save Time with FREE Pacing Guides for Grammar, Writing, Reading, and Math
There are so many things you need to teach your students every year. So many subjects, so many skills, so many standards. And you need to teach it all before state testing, which often occurs a month or two before the end of the school year. It’s no wonder that teachers often worry about how to fit it all in. But you don’t have to worry any longer ... Continue Reading
End of the Year: 11 Tips to Finish Strong
The end of the year is fast approaching. (Yes, even for my east coast teacher friends. I promise it is coming). I don’t know about you, but this time of year always gave me a mix of emotions. Excitement, anticipation, relief, sadness, overwhelm . . . As much fun as it is to look forward to summer vacation, it can also be bittersweet to say ... Continue Reading
3 Simple Classroom Games That Work With Any Subject
Worksheets . . . ugh! Is there anything more boring than assigning page after page of worksheets? It’s true that students need lots of practice to master new skills, but worksheets get old real fast. Luckily, it’s easy to turn any worksheet in any subject into a simple classroom game that makes learning fun! These classroom games are perfect for ... Continue Reading
How to Get More Done During Your Plan Time
Ah . . . your planning period–the fastest forty minutes of the day! And that’s if you are lucky enough to get dedicated daily plan time. With a to-do list a mile long, it can feel impossible to get it all done in such a short period of time. Often, just thinking about everything you have to do (lesson planning, grading, reports, committees, parent ... Continue Reading
5 Unpopular Opinions About Homework
Today we’re talking about a controversial subject: homework. Just the word is often enough to give you a headache. Everyone has an opinion about homework. Should we give it? How much? What’s the point of homework? Well, I’m not going to sugarcoat it. Here are my opinions about homework. I know they might not be very popular. For a long time, I ... Continue Reading
3 Must Dos for Effective Writing Mini Lessons
One of the most effective ways to improve students’ writing (and writing test scores) is to provide direct writing instruction. That’s why writing workshop starts with a mini lesson every day. Check out these three must-do tips to deliver effective writing mini lessons that help kids become more skilled and confident writers. 1. Keep the ... Continue Reading
11 Ways Teachers Can Use AI to Save Time and Increase Productivity
By now, you’ve probably heard of the new AI (artificial intelligence) program called ChatGPT. Like any new technology, there are both positives and negatives associated with it ( “industrious” students using it to write papers). Still, there is no doubt that ChatGPT can be a valuable tool for teachers. Today I am sharing 11 ways teachers can use AI ... Continue Reading
3 Time-Saving Tips for Preparing for a Substitute
A lot of teachers think it’s easier to go to school sick than it is to get ready for a substitute. In fact, the general sentiment is that “Preparing for a substitute is the worst!” I know the feeling. I remember it well. But still, the fact that teachers would rather go to school sick than call off hurts my heart. First of all, in the ... Continue Reading
Free Poetry Writing Unit for grades 2-5!